Craving a cozy, hearty meal that combines all the best flavors of lasagna? Look no further! My Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Delight offers a simple, delicious twist on your favorite dish. With rich tomatoes, savory meats, and creamy cheeses, this soup warms the soul. Join me as we dive into easy steps, tips, and variations that will make your kitchen come alive with flavor!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: This soup brings the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl, perfect for cozy nights.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a deliciously creamy texture that elevates the soup to a whole new level.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the protein or add your favorite veggies, making this recipe versatile to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Extras
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cooking starts with the right ingredients. I love using extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor. It adds a nice depth to the soup. Next, I choose either ground beef or Italian sausage. Both options bring a hearty taste that makes the soup filling.
Canned crushed tomatoes give the soup a base that is rich and tangy. I always use a 28 oz can for a bold flavor. The chicken or vegetable broth adds another layer of flavor while keeping the soup light. Four cups is the sweet spot for a good consistency.
On to the dairy: I use ricotta cheese for creaminess. It adds a nice texture. Shredded mozzarella is a must for that gooey, cheesy top. I also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick.
For seasoning, I love adding finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These aromatics build a solid flavor base. Italian seasoning brings in a mix of herbs that scream Italian comfort food. I finish with salt and black pepper for taste.
Lastly, fresh basil leaves are perfect for garnish. They add color and a fresh aroma. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this lasagna soup a delightful dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
To start, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to help it cook evenly.
Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Mix it into the onions and sauté for about 1 more minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can make the dish bitter.
Now, introduce 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Use a spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Brown the meat for 7-8 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it off carefully.
Combining Ingredients
Pour in 1 (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, which is a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Finishing Touches
Now, add 8 ounces of broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes. They should be al dente and absorb flavors from the soup.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and well-blended.
Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, season the soup with salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Remove the pot from heat.
Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Add a generous dollop of the ricotta mixture on top of each bowl. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the soup.
For an extra cheesy finish, broil the bowls in the oven for 2-3 minutes. This will make the cheese bubbly and golden. Be careful when handling hot bowls.
Finally, garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color. Enjoy your Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Ensuring meat is browned properly: Start by heating your olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft. Then, add in the minced garlic for flavor. When you add the meat, break it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned all over. This step adds great taste to your soup.
- Cooking noodles al dente: Add broken lasagna noodles to your simmering soup. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes. You want them tender but with a slight bite. This keeps them from getting mushy in the soup.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing with crusty Italian bread: Serve your soup with fresh, crusty Italian bread. The bread is perfect for dipping. It also complements the rich flavors in the soup.
- Tips for broiling for extra cheesiness: For an extra cheesy finish, add mozzarella on top of your soup. Then, broil the bowls for 2-3 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Presentation Ideas
- Garnishing with fresh basil: Just before serving, add fresh basil leaves on top of each bowl. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serving bowls that retain heat: Use bowls that keep the soup warm. This way, you can enjoy every spoonful hot and tasty.
Pro Tips
- Choose Your Meat Wisely: Using Italian sausage adds a rich flavor to the soup, but ground beef works well too. Consider a mix for a unique taste.
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: To prevent the lasagna noodles from becoming mushy, add them towards the end of the cooking process and cook until just al dente.
- Cheese Layering: For a creamier texture, mix in some of the mozzarella cheese into the soup along with the ricotta for a luscious flavor blend.
- Garnish with Freshness: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing flavor that brightens the entire dish, enhancing your lasagna soup experience.
Variations
Different Proteins
You can switch the ground beef or sausage for ground turkey or chicken. These options are lighter and still tasty. They bring a different flavor that many enjoy. For those who love mushrooms, try using them as a meat substitute. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste that works well in lasagna soup. They are also a great choice for a vegetarian meal.
Alternative Cheeses
Feel free to play with cheese types in your soup. You can use different cheese blends like gouda or fontina for a unique flavor. If you want a vegan option, there are many plant-based cheeses available. Look for creamy vegan ricotta or mozzarella to keep the dish rich and satisfying.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding fresh veggies can make your soup more vibrant. Spinach or zucchini are both excellent choices. They cook quickly and add great nutrition. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. This will give your soup a lovely kick. Adjust the amount to your taste, starting with a pinch.
Storage Info
Refrigerator Storage
To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. I recommend glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These are great for easy reheating.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
For freezing portions, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can also use freezer bags. Just squeeze out the air before sealing. To thaw, move the soup to the fridge overnight. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well before serving to ensure even heating.
Shelf Life
Lasagna soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you freeze it, it can last up to 3 months. Just label your containers with dates. This way, you know when to enjoy your delicious soup!
FAQs
Can I make Lasagna Soup in advance?
Yes, you can make Lasagna Soup in advance. It stores well in the fridge. To prepare ahead, follow these tips:
- Cook the base: Make the soup up to the point of adding noodles.
- Cool it down: Let the soup cool before storing it.
- Store separately: Keep the noodles in a separate container. This helps them stay firm.
- Reheat before serving: Add the noodles when you heat it up. This way, they won’t get mushy.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you have several options. Here are some tips:
- Add more noodles: Breaking up more lasagna noodles helps absorb liquid.
- Use cornstarch: Mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water. Stir it into the soup.
- Include veggies: Puree cooked vegetables like carrots or potatoes to add body.
- Simmer longer: Let the soup simmer uncovered to reduce liquid.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Here’s what to do:
- Break into pieces: Chop the noodles into smaller bits.
- Adjust liquid: You may need to add extra broth or water since they absorb more liquid.
- Cook longer: Let them simmer until fully tender, which may take a bit longer.
What can I serve with Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna Soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some suggestions:
- Crusty Italian bread: Great for dipping and soaking up the soup.
- Garlic bread: Adds flavor and crunch to your meal.
- Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Cheesy garlic knots: These are fun and tasty accompaniments.
You can create a delicious lasagna soup using simple ingredients and easy steps. We covered key elements like meats and cheeses, along with helpful tips for cooking and storage. You can customize it with different proteins and seasonings to suit your taste. Remember to pair it with crusty bread for a perfect meal. With the knowledge you gained, making this comforting dish will be fun and rewarding. Enjoy your cooking adventure and share your unique twists with others!
